HOW TO USE GLIDE SOLES

How to Use Glide Soles™

Fit Guide

  • Choose your regular sneaker size. Glide Soles are designed to fit true-to-size and adapt to most sneaker silhouettes.
  • The material is flexible, comfortably stretching up a size.
  • If you’re between sizes, we recommend sizing down for a snug fit. You can also heat-form your Glide Soles for a custom fit around shoes two sizes larger.

Fitting Instructions

  1. Toe first: Insert the toe of your sneaker into the front of the Glide Sole.
  2. Heel over: Pull the back of the Glide Sole up and over the heel.
  3. Seat & smooth: Press around the edge so the Glide Sole sits flush with your outsole.
  4. Check lock: Walk a few steps. It should feel snug with no slipping at the heel.


Stretching Instructions

Use this only if your Glide Soles are difficult to pull over the heel and you need a little extra give.


  1. Off-heat hot water: Boil a kettle, then pour the hot water into a heat-proof tray (not on a stove/hob).
  2. Soak briefly: Wait 60–90 seconds (water hot, not vigorously boiling). Submerge the Glide Sole for 1–2 minutes.
  3. Test & repeat: Wearing heat-resistant gloves, remove, test pliability, and re-immerse in short intervals if needed.
  4. Fit & set: Stretch gently over the heel, seat the edges, then hold shape or cool with water to set.

Do not: heat on a stove/hob, use an oven or microwave, use open flames, or use cookware you also use for food.

Safety: Work in a ventilated area and avoid overheating. If you notice a sharp/acidic odour, stop immediately. Heat-softening is for minor shaping—do not attempt significant lengthening.

Troubleshooting

  • Feels loose: Size down, or heat-soften to tighten the wrap at the heel.
  • Hard to fit over heel: Use the heat-soften method for 30–60 seconds more (short intervals).
  • Edges not flush: Press around the perimeter after fitting; re-seat the heel first.

Why Glide Soles™

  • Sole protection: Guard your original outsole from wear and tear.
  • DIY “resole”: Refresh grip without replacing the shoe.
  • Style & colour: Quick switch-ups to match fits or seasons.

Questions or sizing help? Email info@glidesoles.com and we’ll get you sorted.

Back to blog